THE WALL OF FACES

Thinking a lot about you today as every day. It has been 46 years now since you left us, but still seems like yesterday. We all love and miss you so much. I got a beautiful letter from your Marine buddy, Rick Marchand. He calls, writes or sends some memento every year on this day. You will never be forgotten.
Until we meet again.

Silver Star
Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Ronald J. Ray (MCSN: 2424199), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Grenadier with Company B, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 12 August 1969, while Company B occupied a night defensive position, the Marines came under a vicious ground assault by a large North Vietnamese Army force. Immediately seizing the initiative, Lance Corporal Ray's platoon quickly organized a counterattack and, while advancing to engage the enemy, was subjected to a heavy volume of mortars, rockets, rocket-propelled grenades, and small arms fire. Observing a wounded companion fall in an area raked by hostile fire, Lance Corporal Ray, with complete disregard for his own safety, provided his own covering fire as he fearlessly ran to the side of his injured comrade. Boldly exposing himself to the intense North Vietnamese Army fire, he quickly rendered first aid, then lifted the casualty and, while carrying him toward a rear location, was mortally wounded. His heroic and determined actions inspired all who observed him and saved the life of a fellow Marine. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Ray upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Action Date: August 12, 1969

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Lance Corporal

Company: Company B

Battalion: 1st Battalion

Regiment: 7th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Happy Birthday Ron.wish you were here.

I was just looking at some of the names on the wall and I did some research.
It wasn't mentioned,however Ronald Ray was awarded the Silver Star.
As a grunt Marine from 1966 it would have been a honor to have served with him.

I didn't get to know you because I was so small when you were called home. I remember all the stories that I was told growning up and have passed them on to my children . I know you are watching over us along with the rest of the family who has joined you. I am so proud to call you my uncle



Your niece

Melissa